Participation of Mapuche Organizations in Intercultural Education for Children: Limitations and Possibilities in La Araucanía, Chile

• In Event: Indigenous Education Pre-K–12 and Teacher Preparation

Abstract

Chilean educational policies have emphasized the participation of indigenous communities in intercultural preschools. However, recent research has shown that the alliances between indigenous communities and these preschools are still weak. In this study, we focus on the perspective of Mapuche organizations regarding the limitations and possibilities for collaboration. Using a qualitative methodology, we asked: what are the opinions of Mapuche organizations regarding preschools? What kind of cooperation is possible between Mapuche organizations and preschools? And what collaborations are possible between organizations and preschools? From a community-based education and cultural interface standpoint, the results show that in order to forge collaborative alliances, the preschools must make profound changes (e.g. hierarchies, solid relationships, critical interculturalism, Mapuche preschools, indigenous knowledge).

Author

• Rukmini Becerra-Lubies, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile